Girl Giant and the Monkey King
#1 in Girl Giant and the Monkey King Series
on Goodreads (596)
What’s inside...
Eleven-year-old Thom Ngho is keeping a secret: she’s strong. Like suuuuper strong. Freakishly strong. And it’s making it impossible for her to fit in at her new middle school. In a desperate bid to get rid of her super strength, Thom makes a deal with the Monkey King, a powerful deity and legendary trickster she accidentally released from his 500-year prison sentence. Thom agrees to help the Monkey King get back his magical staff if he'll take away her strength. Soon Thom is swept up in an ancient and fantastical world in where demons, dragons, and Jade princesses actually exist. But she quickly discovers that magic can’t cure everything, and dealing with the trickster god might be more trouble than it’s worth. From debut author Van Hoang comes Girl Giant and the Monkey King, a tale packed with magic, adventure, and middle-school woes―perfect for fans of Rick Riordan and Roshani Chokshi.
Character compass
Thom Ngho
The Monkey King
Thom's Mother
Discussion points
How do you think Thuy felt when she discovered her super strength? What would you do if you had a similar power?
Why do you think the Monkey King is interested in Thuy's powers? What qualities make a true friend?
What challenges does Thuy face because of her powers and how does she handle them? How do you handle difficult situations in your life?
The story intertwines elements of Vietnamese culture. What did you learn about Vietnamese traditions and beliefs?
If you could have a conversation with any character from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to Thuy’s adventures, enhancing their empathy and understanding of the character.
Discuss the moral choices Thuy faces. This can lead to a deeper conversation about right and wrong, and personal values.
Explore the cultural aspects presented in the book together. Perhaps find a fun activity like trying a Vietnamese recipe or learning more about the mythology.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of embracing one’s identity
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main character, Thom, struggles with her superhuman strength which makes her feel different and isolated. As she embarks on adventures with the Monkey King, she learns to accept and appreciate her unique abilities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their own differences and see them as strengths, enhancing their self-esteem and encouraging them to be confident in who they are.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Thom and the Monkey King develop a deep bond despite their initial mistrust. This relationship teaches the value of building trust and how friendships can lead to personal growth and support.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of forming and maintaining genuine friendships, and how trust is fundamental in any relationship.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Thom faces numerous challenges and adversaries throughout her journey. Her resilience in overcoming these obstacles highlights her strength and determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn that perseverance and resilience are critical when facing difficulties in their own lives, encouraging them to not give up easily.
Example Lesson: Accountability for one’s actions
Explanation: Thom learns about the consequences of her choices throughout her interactions with the Monkey King and other characters, teaching her to think about the impact of her actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that their actions have consequences, teaching them to think ahead and act responsibly.